Some Illinois Lawmakers Want to Outlaw the ‘Soda Tax’ Completely

When it comes to taxes in the state of Illinois, it really seems like no matter what it's implemented on or what it's taken away from, someone is going to be upset. Well, I'm guessing that's anywhere. Why do you think I drive five hours to buy clothes in Minnesota? So I don't have to pay sales tax.

Which is why I'm unnecessarily perturbed by the fact that out of all the taxes Illinois lawmakers are trying to outlaw, it's the soda tax. That's just me being selfish, and I also don't drink soda or sugary drinks, so it doesn't really affect me.

It does, however, have an impact on lower income families. That's according to Rep. Sue Scherer (D-Decatur), who says, "Families who might tend to buy pop or juice at a store or gas station are going to have to pay more for that; to me we're getting into their privacy and telling them they can't drink this or they can drink that, and I just don't think that's right."

Scherer and other lawmakers have introduced new legislation that would outlaw the soda tax everywhere in Illinois, including Cook County. The bill is fairly new, but should it pass, it would eliminate the one cent per ounce tax on sugary beverages and soda that was approved to help close the county's budget deficit.

I still think they should consider eliminating the sales tax on clothes and shoes, they're a necessity, not a luxury. Just sayin'.